Aanestad Honors North State Students Reaching for College

Awards “Save Me a Spot in College” Contest Winners at State State Capitol

California Chronicle | California Political Desk | June 1, 2007

SACRAMENTO - Senator Sam Aanestad (R-Grass Valley) paid special tribute to 13 award winners from Northern California on the West Steps of the State Capitol today, during a news conference and ceremony to highlight the “Save Me a Spot in College” program. Senator Aanestad spoke to more than 150 students who took part in the event and later passed out awards to deserving students from his 12 county, Northern California 4th Senate District.

“I am very pleased to see these students from my district – 13 in all – and I wish them the very best,” said Senator Aanestad during today’s ceremony. “Every legislator in this Capitol will do all that we can to make sure that you are successful in your quest for higher education. That’s the job of your government – to help you be successful.”

The event also highlighted legislative efforts to aid deserving students through the introduction of SB 890. The Early College Commitment Act of 2007 is a proposal that will provide students access to a technical education or college degree, provided they prepare for the opportunity through their middle and high school years.

The measure would require students to meet all graduation requirements to finish high school, plus take rigorous college preparatory or career technical coursework. It would also require them to attain proficiency in math and reading and writing in English, plus meet application and other requirements for university admission.

In return, the State of California will provide a spot in a community college or state university for the student to pursue a career technical education or pursue a degree. In addition, access will also be provided for financial aid opportunities.

“If you’re willing to take the pledge that nothing is going to stop you from getting your college degree, and fulfilling the dreams of your life, legislators like myself will do our best to make it happen,” said Senator Aanestad during today’s event. “College requires hard work, dedication to higher goals and making a plan for your life.”

Senator Aanestad presented awards to the following students (not in alphabetical order): Joaquin Bermudez, Live Oak High School, Sara Adams, Foothill High School, Alyssa Pena, Foothill High School, Jason Etheridge, Shasta Lake School, Harley Mobley, Weaverville Elementary School, Cecilia Gallardo-Cabrera, Shasta High School, Lauren Sanborn, Redding Christian High School, Sara Cunningham, Weaverville Elementary School, Nick Gaustad, Weed High School, Kia Chang, Willows High School and Tiffany Case, Weed High School.